neutral
very common
Usage
Native speakers commonly use 'labing-isa' in everyday situations, such as counting objects, telling time, or discussing age. For example, a parent might say, 'My child is labing-isa years old,' during a family gathering or at school events.
Synonyms & nuances
'Labing-isa' specifically denotes the number eleven, while the word 'sampu' represents ten. You would choose 'labing-isa' when you need to refer precisely to the number eleven, such as in counting or grading, whereas 'sampu' would be used when discussing the base ten.
Culture
'Labing-isa' is derived from the root word 'isa,' which means 'one,' combined with 'labing,' a prefix that implies a quantity of ten. The number eleven holds cultural significance as it often represents a transition, as seen in traditional Filipino celebrations where children transition from one age group to another, marking milestones in their lives.
FAQ
Q.How do you pronounce 'labing-isa'?
'Labing-isa' is pronounced as lah-bing-ee-sah. Breaking it down can help learners get comfortable with the sounds.
Q.Are there any special uses for 'labing-isa' in Filipino culture?
Yes! 'Labing-isa' is often used in celebrations, especially during birthdays, as it's a milestone age for children in the Philippines.
Q.What is the difference between 'labing-isa' and 'ika-11'?
'Labing-isa' is the cardinal form, used for counting or expressing quantity, while 'ika-11' is the ordinal form, used to denote the 11th position in a sequence.